We hear your desire for growth and joy, and we lift this request before the Lord with both encouragement and gentle correction, for Scripture reminds us, *"There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death"* (Proverbs 14:12 WEB). While the pursuit of happiness is natural, we must align our steps with God’s will rather than our own feelings, for *"the heart is deceitful above all things, and it is exceedingly corrupt: who can know it?"* (Jeremiah 17:9 WEB).
First, we must address the foundation of your request. If you have not surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, we urge you to do so, for *"there is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, by which we must be saved"* (Acts 4:12 WEB). True joy and purpose are found only in Him. If you have already placed your faith in Christ, we rejoice with you and encourage you to seek His wisdom above all else.
Now, regarding your desire to push yourself to become better—this is commendable! God calls us to grow in faith, discipline, and holiness. *"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ"* (2 Peter 3:18 WEB). However, we must caution against the idea of doing "what feels right" without first testing it against Scripture. *"Test all things, and hold firmly that which is good"* (1 Thessalonians 5:21 WEB). What feels right in the moment may not align with God’s best for you.
If you are seeking happiness in areas that conflict with biblical principles—such as relationships outside of marriage, ungodly pursuits, or self-centered ambitions—we must rebuke that path in love. *"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good, well-pleasing, and perfect will of God"* (Romans 12:2 WEB). True fulfillment comes from walking in obedience to Christ, not from chasing fleeting pleasures.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, asking for wisdom and discernment for our brother/sister. Lord, You know the desires of their heart, and we ask that You align them with Your perfect will. Help them to seek You first in all things, for You promise that when we do, *"all these things will be added to you"* (Matthew 6:33 WEB). Guard their heart from deception and lead them into the paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake.
Father, if there are areas where they are pursuing happiness outside of Your design, convict them gently but firmly by Your Holy Spirit. Give them the strength to turn away from anything that does not honor You. Fill them with Your joy, which is not dependent on circumstances but on Your unchanging love. Help them to grow in discipline, faith, and obedience, for *"the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control"* (Galatians 5:22-23 WEB).
Lord, we ask that You reveal Your purpose for their life and give them the courage to walk in it. May they find true happiness in serving You and others, for *"it is more blessed to give than to receive"* (Acts 20:35 WEB). We declare that they will not be led astray by the lies of this world but will be rooted and grounded in Your truth.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
We encourage you to seek God’s will through prayer, Scripture, and godly counsel. Surround yourself with believers who will sharpen you and hold you accountable. *"As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens his friend’s countenance"* (Proverbs 27:17 WEB). If you are struggling with overthinking, cast your anxieties on the Lord, for He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7 WEB). Trust in His timing and His plans, for they are good.
Finally, if you are considering a relationship, remember that God’s design is for marriage between one man and one woman, and that relationship should be pursued with purity and intentionality. *"Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled; but God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers"* (Hebrews 13:4 WEB). Seek a spouse who loves the Lord above all else, and let your courtship be a reflection of Christ’s love for the Church.
May the Lord bless you and keep you as you seek to honor Him in all things.